Shimano has a new Dura-Ace wheel lineup, and it is more than a depth change and fresh graphics. The new WH-R9370 series brings carbon spokes, wider rims, lower weights, and a dedicated time trial setup with a 99mm front wheel and rear disc.The new Dura-Ace wheel lineup (All photos/Shimano)New Shimano Dura-Ace Wheel Lineup The lineup includes the WH-R9370-C36, C50, C60, C99 front wheel, and R9370 rear disc. Shimano says the wheels were developed with WorldTour riders and pro triathletes, including athletes from Alpecin-Premier Tech and Fenix-Premier Tech, along with Kat Matthews and Mathieu van der Poel.The lineup is fully tubeless (no tubulars) and embraces modern tire sizes. Carbon spokes are at the heart of the weight reduction. These are the new super-aero profile spokes on the C99. Hold The WeightThe weight savings are the first thing that stands out. Compared with the previous Dura-Ace R9270 wheels, the new C36 drops from 1350g to 1170g, the C50 goes from 1461g to 1302g, and the C60 falls from 1609g to 1389g. That is 180g off the climbing wheelset, 159g from the all-rounder, and 220g from the deeper C60.Howd they do that? A lot of that comes from the new spoke system. Shimano is using carbon spokes in two profiles: Aero at 4.0 x 1.1mm and Super Aero at 5.2 x 0.8mm. The C36, C50, and C60 use the Aero spokes, while the C99 front wheel gets 16 Super Aero spokes.Shimano Gets Modern-ishThe rims also move with the current road tire trend. The C36, C50, and C60 all use a 23mm internal width and are built around 28-30c tires. Shimano says testing at 48km/h with 30c tires showed up to 2.7 watts less drag compared with the previous generation. The C50 and C60 also use front- and rear-specific external widths, with the C60 measuring 31.5mm wide up front and 32.3mm out back.Cup & Cone CrewShimano is staying with cup-and-cone hubs, which is very Shimano, and wont change. The update is that the new system gets replaceable bearing cups, improved waterproof sealing, and claimed lower friction. Shimano says its revised cup-and-cone setup showed 30 percent lower rotational torque than typical cartridge bearings in its own testing.A Depth For Every CourseThe model split is simple. The C36 is the climbing wheel at 1170g. The C50 is the everyday race option at 1302g. The C60 is the deeper, stiffer aero wheelset at 1389g. For time trial and triathlon, the C99 front wheel uses a 99mm rim depth and weighs 792g. The matching rear disc weighs 987g.Dura-Ace WH-R9370 Wheels Pricing & AvailabilityPricing is the same for the three standard wheelsets: $2,970 for the C36, C50, or C60. The C99 front wheel is $1,595, and the rear disc is $3,030.Shimano says availability starts in September 2026.Is a new Dura-Ace groupset not far off? The current Dura-Ace group lives in the R9200/R9270 world, so a new WH-R9370 wheel family naturally raises the question: are these wheels the first sign of a next-generation Dura-Ace group for 2027?Were all hoping so. If these wheels are any glimpse into the future of Dura-Ace, we should expect a lighter and more forward-thinking groupset. Fingers crossed well see it soon!Bike.Shimano.com

Shimano has announced its new Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheelset line-up, promising lower weight, increased responsiveness and improved aerodynamics.The latest generation of Dura-Ace wheels see improvements to the rim design and a move to carbon spokes, which is claimed to reduce weight by up to 220g per wheelset, depending on the rim depth.This is paired with Shimanos venerable cup-and-cone hub setup to ensure long-term durability and ease of servicing, thanks to the introduction of replaceable bearings.The series features four wheelsets: the C36, C50 and C60 road wheels, and the C99 TT and triathlon setup that combines a 99mm-deep front wheel and a disc rear wheel.We first spotted some new Shimano wheels fitted to Mathieu van der Poels bike back in 2025; this unreleased wheelset has since made a notable reappearance under Van Der Poel at Omloop het Nieuwsblad, where the AlpecinPremier Tech rider soloed to victory on the Belgian cobbles.All of this got us wondering: when will we see a new Shimano Dura-Ace groupset? Shimanos current flagship road groupset, Dura-Ace R9200, was released in August 2021, and, with these wheels being part of the R9300 series, surely a new groupset isnt far away. Read more: New Shimano Dura-Ace is coming these are the 4 key features I expect to seeCup-and-cone, with a twist Old and new: cup-and-cone bearings and carbon spokes. Shimano In this world, nothing can be said to be certain except death, taxes and Shimanos dedication to cup-and-cone bearings.The WH-R9370 wheelsets keep the cup-and-cone tradition alive, preferring loose ball bearings rather than sealed cartridge bearings pressed into the hub shell.According to Shimanos own testing, its cup-and-cone system is said to offer 30% lower rotational torque than typical cartridge bearings.Along with the claims of performance, cup-and-cone setups benefit from improved long-term serviceability. The move to replaceable bearings will also simplify servicing for home mechanics, plus Shimano says durability has been enhanced with improved waterproof seals.Lightweight carbon spokes and wider rims for wider tyres Shimano says the new wheels are designed for 28-30c tyres. Shimano The WH-R9370 wheelsets are now equipped with carbon spokes, a trend among high-end wheels that has quietly gone mainstream. Shimano offers two spoke profiles: Aero (4x1.1mm) used on the C36, C50, C60 and the Super Aero (5.2x0.8mm), which is reserved for the C99 front wheel.The move to carbon spokes also cuts a significant chunk of weight from each wheelset, saving 220g from the C60, bringing it under a claimed 1,400g. The C50 is stated to now weigh 1,302g (down from a claimed 1,461g and the shallow C36 is said to come in at 1,170g (down from 1,350g).Shimano has stuck to a classic rim profile, rather than the saw-tooth pattern or rim texturing used by brands such as Zipp and Scope. All the wheels in the WH-R9370 family have front- and rear-specific rim profiles, with each rim depth tuned to balance aerodynamics and crosswind stability, according to Shimano.The rims have a 23mm internal rim width, 2mm wider to better support the current trend for wider road bike tyres for improved aerodynamics and rolling resistance with a 28mm-30mm tyre. Read more: Carbon spokes have quietly gone mainstream but this is why theyll never fully replace steelIs this a sign that Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9300 is about to be released? Mathieu van der Poel has been involved in the development and testing of the new wheels. Will he be riding a new Dura-Ace groupset soon, too? Shimano These new wheels are the first Shimano products to bear the R9300 product-naming convention and could be an indicator that the new Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9300 is just around the corner.Shimano has traditionally kept to a four-year product cycle; R9200 was released back in August 2021, meaning a new Dura-Ace groupset is almost a year overdue.Over the last five years, Shimano has released some significant updates to its off-road groupsets. The semi-wireless configuration of Dura-Ace R9200 now feels dated when compared to the wireless design of the XTR Di2 M9200 groupset released last year, not to mention the wireless SRAM line-up.There is patent evidence that suggests Shimano is working on a fully wireless 13-speed electronic groupset for the road. The C36, C50 and C60 road wheels are complemented by this C99 TT and triathlon setup. Shimano Shimano hasnt endorsed 1x on the road, and considering Shimanos conservative approach to product releases, the native support of a 1x drivetrain would be a significant departure from its status quo. We think its unlikely, but the move to a wireless 13-speed drivetrain, plus the uptake of WorldTour riders choosing a single front chainring setup, could prompt Shimano to offer a 1x setup for road as part of its next-generation Dura-Ace groupset.We also spotted that Shimano has a prototype road pedal system in the works, an update to a design that has remained unchanged since 2003.Although there is a lot of evidence that Shimano is gearing up for a major overhaul of its flagship groupset, at the time of writing there is no official word on when it's going to be released.Shimano Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheelset pricing and availabilityThe Dura-Ace WH-R9370 wheelset line-up will be available from September 2026, although exact dates haven't been confirmed.Pricing it yet to be announced.

Decathlon CMA CGM chiefDominique Serieys has issued a definitive update on how the team stand in the race for the long-term services of Paul Seixas. The 19-year-old sensation's contract is up at the end of the 2027 season, and as several teams circle the rising talent, his future remains uncertain....

Five Tours de France titlesin seven years have firmly placed Tadej Pogaar in cyclings pantheon. At just 27, the Slovenian now joins the exclusive club of Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault, and Miguel Indurain, the only riders to win five editions of the Grande Boucle. Yet inside UAE...

Many top-end lightweight carbon wheelsets have a system weight restriction of 100kg, which may make them unsuitable for heavier riders. However, Tune may have the answer with its new Nano Road range.The new series of 35mm, 45mm and 60mm-deep carbon wheels have a generous system weight limit of 130kg.Earlier this year, Tune launched the Nano gravel wheelset, which combined the fast-engaging and lightweight Nano hub with a new carbon rim design built for big tyres and heavier riders. Now the same tech is being rolled out with the brand's new road wheels. Tune's Nano Road 60 is the deepest option in the Nano range. Tune What you need to know about the Tune Nano Road wheelsets Available with carbon or standard spokes Stainless or ceramic bearings 35mm, 45mm and 60mm rim depths Maximum system weight of 130kg Weights from 1,280g a pair (35mm) Prices from 2,290 to 3,240 Built tough The hub and wheel systems are approved for a maximum rider weight of 120kg and a maximum system weight of 130kg. System weight means the complete ready-to-ride setup: rider, bike, equipment and luggage. For example, a 110kg rider on a 7kg road bike can still carry 13kg of bags and equipment, and remain within the 130kg maximum system weight. Tune says it undertook extensive torque testing while developing the new wheels. The Nano CS system was tested under loads of up to 700Nm before failure. According to Tune, that level of torque is comparable to what is produced by a car engine. The brand says for a human-powered bicycle drivetrain, this provides a very large safety margin and gives confidence that the Nano CS is ready for even the most demanding riders, gear ratios and conditions. The freehub system is the POEtry 69, as used on Tunes Nano gravel wheels. According to Tune, the POEtry 69 freehub has already been proven under professional racing conditions, including use by WorldTour riders during the Tour de France. Carbon spokes done properly The CS spoke interface enables the carbon spoke head to settle naturally. Tune Alongside the standard Nano Road wheelsets, Tune is also offering a carbon-spoke option. It says standard steel spokes can take a certain amount of bending and angular correction during building. Carbon spokes, while offering exceptional stiffness-to-weight, need to run as straight as possible from hub to rim. If a carbon spoke is forced into the wrong angle, it puts unwanted stress into the wheel. Tune says this means when building with carbon spokes, a dedicated hub shell is required. That makes carbon-spoke wheels prohibitively expensive and more complex to build. However, the brand says it has solved this issue with the patented Nano CS hub interface. The hub shell uses a ball-milled spoke-hole geometry. This means that instead of the spoke being forced into a fixed slot or compromised angle, the interface enables the spoke head to settle naturally in the direction of the rim hole, creating a straight spoke line and more precise connection between rim and hub. Tune Nano Road wheels spec and pricing Tune's Nano hubs are available seperately. Tune Rim depth: 35mm, 45mm or 60mm, hooked rim profile Internal width: 24mm External width: 32mm Compatible tyre size: 28-45mm Weight (+/- 3%): 35mm 1,280g, 45mm 1,340g, 60mm 1,440g UCI status: Approved Tune's Nano 45 CS wheelset weighs in at 1,250g a pair. Tune Specification Nano Road CS Rim depth: 35mm, 45mm or 60mm, hooked rim profile Internal width: 24mm External width: 32mm Compatible tyre size: 28-45mm Weight (+/- 3%): 35mm 1,180g, 45mm 1,250g, 60mm 1,350g UCI status: Approved Prices Nano Road wheelset: 2,290 / 2,920 (standard / ceramic bearings) Nano Road CS wheelset: 2,790 / 3,420 (standard / ceramic bearings) Nano Road CS hubset: 750 / 1,380 (standard / ceramic bearings)

Tadej Pogacar put in his best-ever performance at the Tour de France this summer, according to former Tour winner Jan Ullrich. The world champion made it five titles, joining four other riders in holding the record for the most general classification wins at La Grand Boucle. Dominating the race, he...

As little weight on the bike as possible, as much comfort as necessary. In Frances Massif Central, we put six tents head to head, from ultralight bikepacking specialists to comfortable home-away-from-home shelters. Which features really make a difference after a long day in the saddle? And do you actually need a dedicated bikepacking tent for the ultimate adventure? Allez-y!Its just after 9 p.m. somewhere on the Czallier Plateau. Our thighs are burning after the last 1,200 m of climbing on steep gravel roads. The ground is still wet from a heavy downpour, and were fumbling around in the darkness, illuminated only by our head torches, trying to hammer tent pegs into the ground. We have no patience left for complicated pitching instructions. Right now, everything just needs to be quick and uncomplicated.Less than ten minutes later, were already sitting comfortably beneath the vestibule. Dinner is simmering on the stove, and were relieved that pitching the tent went so smoothly. But how do you get to enjoy evenings like this when bikepacking? What does a good bikepacking tent actually need to offer? Quick and hassle-free pitching is one thing. But do you really need a tent designed specifically for bikepacking, or will a classic trekking tent do the job just as well?Our 2026 Bikepacking Tent Review has all the answers. To find out, we tested six very different tents, from purpose-built bikepacking models to classic trekking tents. Our focus was on packed size, weight, living comfort, weather protection, storage space, handling and, of course, how well each tent integrates into a real bikepacking setup.Table of ContentsBikepacking Is Booming And Tents Are Evolving TooWhat Makes a Tent a Bikepacking Tent?Why We Tested (Almost) Exclusively Two-Person TentsOur Test Field at a GlanceOur Test Criteria for the Bikepacking Tent ComparisonAll Tents at a GlanceTops and Flops from Our Bikepacking Tent TestBikepacking Is Booming And Tents Are Evolving TooOnly a few years ago, bikepackers were still relying on the same tents made for hiking, trekking and camping. But the bikepacking boom has transformed the market. Ever since Big Agnes introduced the first bikepacking-specific tents in 2018, the range has continued to grow, with more and more manufacturers offering purpose-built models. But what actually makes a tent a bikepacking tent? And is investing in one worthwhile if you also plan to use it for hiking, trekking trips or camping holidays? Our review has the answers.Bivouacking between snowfields on the legendary GTMC, the Grande Traverse du Massif Central gravel and mountain bike route. This is where four-season tents like the Hilleberg Unna really come into their own.What Makes a Tent a Bikepacking Tent?Besides low weight, which is equally important for trekking tents, manufacturers mainly optimise their bikepacking tents in two ways: shorter pole sections and dedicated bikepacking stuff sacks with integrated mounting systems. Shorter pole sections make it easier to carry a tent on narrow drop handlebars, while dedicated stuff sacks are designed to simplify mounting them to the bike. The solution that impressed us most came from Big Agnes. A compact dry bag combined with robust rubber utility straps. It works just as well on handlebars as it does on luggage racks or cargo mounts, giving you far more freedom when packing.Mounting options: freestyle using your own straps, as with the SIMOND trekking tent (right), or a dedicated bikepacking system like the one from MSR or Big Agnes, where rubber straps hold the tent securely on the handlebars.Why We Tested (Almost) Exclusively Two-Person TentsWith one exception, we tested every tent in its two-person version, even where lighter one-person versions are available. The reason is simple: after a long day in the saddle, a little extra space is often worth far more than saving a few grams.One-person tents tend to be cramped, light on storage space and quick to reach their limits once the weather turns bad. Most also make do with a single vestibule, often called an apse, rather than two. A two-person tent, by contrast, offers noticeably more comfort on solo trips, greater freedom of movement and extra room for luggage, wet clothing or even a second rider if needed. For most outdoor adventures, it is simply the more versatile, better long-term investment.The Hilleberg Unna is the one exception in this review: officially sold as a one-person tent, it offers enough space for one person with plenty of gear, or two at a push.Bikepacking Tent Review: Our Test Field at a GlanceFor this group test, we selected six tents covering very different concepts, price points and intended uses.ManufacturerModelPrice ()Weight with / without Stuff SackMarketed as a Bikepacking TentPacked Size (L x W x H)Big AgnesCopper Spur UL2 Bikepack7001.63 kg / 1.45 kgyes34 x 18 x 18 cmHillebergUnna1.0402.30 kg / 2.23 kgnoca. 43 x 14 x 14MSRHubba Hubba Bikepack 2P6901.62 kg / 1.43 kgyes30 x 11.5 x 16NEMODragonfly Bikepack OSMO 2P6401.69 kg / 1.53 kgyes40 x 14 x 17SIMONDMT900249,991.93 kg / 1.85 kgno40 x 14 x 14VAUDESpace 2P-Ultra Light Tent7601.95 kg / 1.89 kgno42 x 14 x 14This review brings together ultralight bikepacking specialists, comfort-focused trekking tents, budget-friendly entry-level models and uncompromising all-weather shelters. Particularly interesting: the three dedicated bikepacking tents from Big Agnes, MSR and NEMO finished remarkably close together. All three impressed with thoughtful details, low weight, compact packed dimensions, short pole sections and well-designed bike mounting systems. None of them showed any real weaknesses. Instead, all three performed at an exceptionally high level. Even so, we managed to identify clear differences between them. More on that later.The remaining three tents certainly dont need to hide either. Here, the deciding factor is what youre actually looking for and how seriously you approach bikepacking. Thats why we included the affordable SIMOND entry-level tent, the spacious VAUDE model and the Hilleberg Unna for extreme weather conditions.Ultimately, our findings perfectly match our own long-term bikepacking experience. After all, we were travelling with bikes and tents long before 2018. A trekking tent, combined with a set of aftermarket straps or packed inside a frame bag, can still be the perfect companion for bikepacking, provided it meets the criteria that really matter. More on that below.The opposite is equally true. Dedicated bikepacking tents also work brilliantly for hiking trips or spontaneous overnighters. Only a few bike-specific accessories, such as the spacers on the MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack stuff sack, should be removed before heading out on foot.Across all six tents in this review, it wasnt the big differences in weight or weather protection that determined the final ranking. It was the details. How easy is the tent to pitch in difficult conditions? How versatile is the mounting system? How comfortable is the interior? Which features genuinely make life easier at camp? Those seemingly small differences ultimately decided the final positions.Sweat, Gravel and Head Torches How We Tested the Bikepacking TentsTo find out which mobile shelter truly delivers after a long day in the saddle, the three of us headed deep into Frances Massif Central, each bringing different expectations and priorities. Between remote plateaus, unpredictable weather and rough gravel roads, every tester spent one night in each bikepacking tent during our overnighter trips. That allowed us to find out how the tents really perform on tour, which smart details make life at camp easier, and which concepts make the difference between frustration and a well-earned post-ride beer after a long day in the saddle.Our Test Criteria for the Bikepacking Tent ComparisonFor our final verdict, we assessed every bikepacking tent across five key categories.1. Materials & PitchingAfter a long day in the saddle, sometimes covering well over 100 km, the first few minutes spent handling the poles often determine whether the evening starts off relaxed or turns into a frustrating battle with awkward clips and tight pole sleeves. We assessed the overall handling of each design and the confidence inspired by its materials.2. Transport & MountingEven the best tent is of little use if it rides like a sack of wet cement on the bike. How compact is the packed size? Does it fit between modern gravel handlebars measuring 38 to 40 cm wide without interfering with brake levers or cables? And how easily can it be mounted to handlebars, forks, the frame or a pannier rack?3. Living Space & StorageDoes the tent feel cramped inside, or is it a spacious home away from home for a few nights out? Is there enough room in the vestibule for wet clothing and muddy shoes? Which manufacturers have really thought things through?4. Weather Protection & VentilationHere we focused on wind protection, airflow and condensation management. We assessed the distribution of materials inside each tent. Do high-cut nylon panels effectively shield your face from cold draughts, or does extensive mesh provide better airflow? We also evaluated each solution for dealing with condensation, from adjustable roof vents to simple ventilation through the outer doors, weighing the balance between insulation and moisture build-up.5. Rider Type & Intended UseTheres no single perfect bikepacking tent for everyone. Every model prioritises different aspects, whether thats the balance between weight and durability or overall purchase price. We explain which type of rider and which kind of adventure each tent is best suited to, and where the investment really pays off.All Tents at a GlanceHilleberg UnnaThe Hilleberg Unna is the specialist for demanding adventures far from the beaten track. As a no-compromise four-season tent, it consistently prioritises stability, weather protection and durability over low weight or campsite comfort. If you regularly head out in storms, snow and freezing temperatures, this is one of the most dependable tents in this review. Click here for the full review.Bikepacking Tent MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2PThe MSR Hubba Hubba Bikepack 2P successfully carries the strengths of the well-known trekking classic into the world of bikepacking. Its well-designed transport system with a clever handlebar bag, low weight and straightforward pitching make it one of the most balanced tents in the review. On longer tours in particular, the MSR scores with strong everyday usability and reliable weather protection. Click here for the full review.Bikepacking Tent NEMO Dragonfly Bikepack OSMO 2PThe NEMO Dragonfly Bikepack OSMO 2P is aimed at bikepackers who value comfort and organisation. Clever storage solutions, the well-thought-out packing system and plenty of practical details make for a homely overall package. Pitching has its rough edges, but the Dragonfly is still one of the most convincing bikepacking tents in the entire test field. Click here for the full review.Trekking Tent SIMOND MT900 2PThe SIMOND MT900 2P takes a pleasantly pragmatic approach. Instead of trying to show off with elaborate high-end solutions, it impresses with straightforward handling, smart features and solid everyday usability. Practical details like the included vestibule groundsheets and the simple packing concept make it a versatile companion for bikepacking and trekking trips, and at a very fair price. Click here for the full review.VAUDE Space 2PThe VAUDE Space 2P has different priorities from most tents in this review. Rather than chasing the latest possible weight, it focuses on comfort and generous interior space. The result is the most homely tent in the entire test field, ideal for everyone who wants to properly stretch out and relax at camp after a long day in the saddle. Click here for the full review.Best in Test: Bikepacking Tent Big Agnes Copper Spur 2P BikepackWith its low system weight, compact packed size and practical mounting system, the Big Agnes Copper Spur UL2 Bikepack impresses with strong all-round qualities. High-quality workmanship, a surprisingly generous sense of space and many practical detail solutions make it the most coherent overall package in the entire test field, securing victory for the brand that pioneered the bikepacking tent. Click here for the full review.Tops and Flops from Our Bikepacking Tent TestTopsMaximum setup flexibility: thanks to the simple stuff sack and robust utility straps, the Big Agnes Copper Spur can be mounted almost anywhere on the bike, from the handlebars and top tube to the luggage rack.Well-thought-out living concept: With the included vestibule floor, light-diffusing Nightlight Pockets and large overhead gear loft, the NEMO Dragonfly makes outstanding use of the available interior space.Best weather protection: With its robust fabrics and heavy-duty zips, the Hilleberg Unna stands up to storms, snow and freezing temperatures without batting an eyelid.Generous living space: The VAUDE Space 2P has the airiest interior in the entire test field, and rewards long days in the saddle with genuine camping comfort.Compact lightweight champion: At just 1.63 kg and with a very compact packed size the Big Agnes Copper Spur 2P still offers an impressively spacious interior.Dry inner tent: With both VAUDE and Hilleberg, the inner tent stays protected during setup in heavy rain because the flysheet goes up first or remains permanently connected to the inner tent.FlopsExtra costs almost guaranteed: Despite their premium price tags, none of the manufacturers includes a footprint as standard. With fabrics this lightweight, however, a protective groundsheet is virtually essential on tour.Small parts: Fiddly and easy to lose. During setup, the NEMO Dragonflys tight hook connection and the corner clips on the inner tent repeatedly came loose unnoticed during testing and can easily disappear in the grass.Disappointingly sparse accessories in the premium segment: despite the premium price tag of almost 690, MSR dont include a tent repair kit at all, while NEMO leaves its guy lines detached. Thats disappointing at this level.Strong chemical smell: When new, the affordable SIMOND MT900 gives off a very strong plastic smell. It needs to air out thoroughly before its first major bikepacking trip, although the smell fades fairly quickly afterwards.ConclusionsOur 2026 bikepacking tent review shows that all three dedicated bikepacking tents perform at a remarkably similar level, each impressing with well-considered details. A good trekking tent, however, can work just as well on tour. Weight and packed size are only part of the equation: pitching ease, storage space and living comfort matter every bit as much. In the end, intended use is the deciding factor. Choose accordingly, and the right tent will find you.Der Beitrag Between Gravel Roads and Starry Skies 6 Bikepacking Tents on Review erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Twenty-four-year-old Womens WorldTour pro Kim Cadzow has announced she is stepping away from professional cycling. The New Zealander, who spent the last two seasons with EF Education-Oatly, wrote in an Instagram post on Wednesday that riding her bike is no longer my happy place, and had begun to feel more and more like punishment. A three-time national champion, Cadzow has not competed this year, and last raced in July 2025 at the Belgian one-day event Zottegem-Strijpen. Announcing her decision on Instagram, she wrote: Ive decided to step away from my professional cycling career. I dont feel old enough to say Ive retired, but I can say I wont be returning.Ive played over many situations in my head, just riding time trial, and I was so lucky to have had the opportunity to join the NZ track team for a brief stint. But riding my bike was no longer my happy place, and it felt everyday more and more like punishment. I love sport its my life and I never wanted to walk away hating it. A post shared by Kim Cadzow (@kim.cadzow)A photo posted by on Cadzow took up cycling at 19 after previously competing in triathlon. She signed her first pro contract in 2023, aged 21, spending a season with Jumbo-Visma, before joining EF in 2024. That same year, she won a stage and the overall at the Italian race Trofeo Ponente in Rosa. She also finished sixth at Lige-Bastogne-Lige, and represented New Zealand at the Paris Olympics, where she placed seventh in the individual time trial. Thank you to everyone who supported me and was a part of my journey. Coaches, teammates, family, friends, sponsors and NZ. Nothing compared to wearing the fern on my back, Cadzow wrote. To all those young riders out there... hold your friends close and your family closer. Build a circle around you of support and lean on them, because once you are done thats who you will have standing by your side.Responding to her Instagram post, Cadzow's former team-mates and friends paid tribute to her and her career. You achieved so much and must be so proud, said fellow New Zealander Mikayla Harvey. Congratulations on your career, this decision and on always being a genuinely lovely human being commented AG Insurance-Soudals Sarah Gigante. Im so grateful that our paths crossed.Paris-Roubaix winner Alison Jackson, who rode alongside Cadzow at EF, wrote: You did some big things in that short time! Happy to know you and your silly goose side! Cant wait to see what you get up to!

Callum is here, and very jealous of those of you further north who last night had their first bit of rain in weeks! Today's live blog will not feature any rain dances however...

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